Dubai tops global FDI rankings for eighth consecutive year

Dubai attracts 640+ new high-quality projects in H1 2025, setting a global benchmark

Last updated: September 22, 2025 | 16:48

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Dubai tops global FDI rankings for eighth consecutive year

Rupert Rogers

Dubai: Dubai has topped the world’s cities in attracting new foreign direct investment (FDI) projects during the first half of 2025, according to data from Financial Times – fDi Markets, drawing over 640 high-quality projects.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, announced the major news in a series of tweets on his official X account.

“For the eighth consecutive time, Dubai has topped the world’s cities in attracting new foreign direct investment (FDI) projects during the first half of 2025, according to data from Financial Times – fDi Markets, drawing over 640 high-quality projects,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

Attracting over 640 new high-quality projects in H1 2025, Dubai’s visionary leadership and investor-friendly environment continue to set a global benchmark. The visionary foresight of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, his wise directives, the dedication of government teams, and the seamless partnership with the private sector have transformed Dubai into an exceptional success story that inspires the world, he said.

“We take pride in the renewed confidence of international investors, reflecting the strength of our investment environment, the transparency of our regulations, the efficiency of our infrastructure, and our unique ability to adapt to shifts in the global economy,” Sheikh Hamdan remarked.

Also Read: Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone turns 40: Jafza marks $30 billion in FDI, creates 1 million jobs

“Every day brings us closer to achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. With a spirit that knows no limits, we affirm: the future is Dubai, and Dubai is the future,” the Crown Prince added.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.